Cold Weather Can be Especially Hard on Seniors

Many seniors are especially susceptible to the cold and end up feeling chilly all winter long.  There are several reasons why cold weather can be hard on the elderly including complications from common diseases and health conditions. 

The American Heart Association explains that seniors with cardiovascular conditions can experience increased side effects from the cold as lower temperatures and cold winds reduce body heat and cause blood vessels to constrict.  This makes it more difficult for oxygen to reach the entire body, and someone with heart disease can have difficulty breathing.  Other health conditions common to the elderly include hypothyroidism (a low thyroid gland output), which can cause the sensation of cold feet and hands.  Also a sedentary lifestyle, problems with circulation from diabetes, and losing weight can cause seniors to be more affected by the cold.    

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) cautions that if an elderly person becomes very chilled, it can be dangerous and result in a condition known as hypothermia and may happen before a person is aware of the problem.  Even residing in a very cold house may result in a body temperature of 95°F or lower, which “can cause many health problems, such as a heart attack, kidney problems, liver damage, or worse.”

Tips to help the elderly stay warm and regulate their body temperatures include eating a nutrient-rich diet and participating in age-appropriate exercises.  The NIA advises seniors not to try and save money by skimping on heating their homes but to keep the temperature at least 68–70°F.  To cut heating costs, close off unused rooms, shuts blinds and make sure your house if well-insulated.  Also wear layers throughout the day and use a small throw to place over your legs or shoulders if you do feel a chill.  Furthermore, at night, wear long underwear under your pajamas and socks as well as a knit cap if you are still cold. 

At MorningStar at Jordan, we specialize in providing seniors with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  We offer 55 suites for assisted living and 29 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment.  Our spacious senior living residences are available in a variety of well-designed floor plans and have details reflective of those found throughout our beautifully appointed community.

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand one of the area’s finest senior living residences.

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/cold-weather-safety-older-adults